DIGITAL CRIME AND POLICE RESPONSE IN NIGERIA: INSTITUTIONAL CHALLENGES AND SECURITY IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study examines the intersection of digital transformation and the challengesfacing the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in addressing digital-related crimes and their broaderimplications for national security. The study employed the qualitative approach. Data for the studywas collected through primary sources, including key informant interviews (KIIs) and in-depthinterviews (IDIs) and other secondary sources such as books, journals and media reports. Basedon the Situational Crime Prevention (SCP) theoretical framework, findings show that the NPF’slimitations stem from inadequate funding, poor digital infrastructure and equipment, institutionaldecay, and insufficient training. Although government efforts such as establishing digital literacycentres, initiating training and retraining programs, and partnering with local and internationalagencies represent steps in the right direction, their effectiveness is often undermined by systemiccorruption and institutional weaknesses. These challenges have serious implications for nationalsecurity. The study emphasises the urgent need to address these barriers, with particular attentionto sustained political will and increased investment in the sector.